collate different aspects of neurodevelo

Neurodevelopment

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs) are types of disorders that influence how the brain functions and alter neurological development, this negatively affects a child's trajectory to learn, grow, and develop over time These may cause delays in a child’s development including language, cognitive, motor and social skills.

These problems begin during stages of development. This means that they usually first appear during infancy to childhood years. However, they continue to persist into adulthood or may go undiagnosed until adulthood. There are instances in which a child outgrows the symptoms associated with an ND.

Some of the most common concerns are, but not limited to, the following:

Developmental delays (speech, motor, global)
Cerebral palsy

Developmental regression
Autism spectrum disorder
Intellectual disability or cognitive delay
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Learning difficulties/school failure
Behavioral problems

What are neurodevelopmental disorders?

Whereas many NDs are not as well known or widely studied, the most common NDs worldwide are autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In the Philippines, cerebral palsy is estimated in 1-2 out of every 100 Filipinos.

While some NDs have identifiable causes, many others do not have a clear cause. There are various possible reasons for the onset of NDs. From available research on the cause of NDs, both biologic and environmental influences play a role. Some researchers believe that maternal events, such as diet and other lifestyle exposures could influence the development of NDs.

To be diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder, impairments must impact social abilities and limit functioning within society.

Co-morbidity conditions are very common among people with NDs. This means that they are more likely also to have another mental or neurologic health condition. It is also common for one individual to have multiple NDs.

Although there is no cure for NDs, there are ways to help manage and cope with symptoms. Therapies typically involve a combination of medications, behavior therapy, speech therapy, and psychological counseling.

Let’s Work Together

Several doctors and healthcare specialists will be involved in the comprehensive management of neuro-developmental conditions. Community advocates are also important for the welfare and optimal improvement in children with these conditions.

Although NDs have their share of challenges, a person can still live a fulfilling life with effective coping, support, accommodations, and treatment methods. When a child is diagnosed with an ND, this can be a significant adjustment for parents and loved ones. Support of loved ones and caretakers will play an important part in a person's quality of life.

Why see a neurologist for a developmental evaluation?

A child neurologist focuses on understanding if there is a specific reason for a child’s neurodevelopmental disorder and works to identify what that cause may be.
- Identifying a specific cause for a child’s developmental issues may provide information about the anticipated development and overall prognosis.
- Understanding the cause can guide decisions on treatment if specific medical therapies are available, especially if there are associated medical problems that need to be addressed.

A child neurologist evaluates whether your child’s condition is indicative of a progressive or degenerative neurological condition.
- The goal is to identify potentially diagnosable or treatable medical conditions.
- A thorough neurological examination is done as part of the developmental evaluation.
- Diagnostic tests such as brain imaging, hearing and visual testing may be recommended to better determine associated conditions and possible causes.

A child neurologist can treat disorders that co-occur with neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Examples would be children with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD have increased risk for having associated seizures. A child neurologist will help identify if a children with neurodevelopmental conditions require additional testing such as electroencephalogram (EEG), and subsequently treating the seizures with anti-seizure medications, if necessary.

A child neurologist will commonly recommend genetic testing to identify genetic differences that may be causing a child’s neurodevelopmental disorder.
- Genetic differences or syndromes can be identified which give more specific information about the cause for the neurodevelopmental disorder.
- For example, Fragile X syndrome is the most common known inheritable or genetic cause of intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. Identifying this disorder through genetic testing can lead to identifying any associated medical problems for which a child may be at risk.
- Some test results can help families make more informed decisions about recurrence risks in subsequent pregnancies and family members.
- Genetic testing can often provide a sense of closure on a family's journey of searching for answers. Additional unnecessary testing can be avoided, and focus on available prevention, monitoring and treatment options is then optimized.